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Updated: Jan 7, 2026
07:20
Dried Blood Spot Collection of Health Biomarkers to Maximize Participation in Population Studies
Published on: January 28, 2014
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Biomarkers
Jitendra Kumar Sinha1, Krishna Kumar Singh2, Prashant Verma3
1GloNeuro Academy, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Alzheimer'S & Dementia : the Journal of the Alzheimer'S Association
|December 24, 2025
Summary
Microglia, the brain's immune cells, have a dual role in neuronal survival. Understanding their protective and harmful functions is key to developing new treatments for central nervous system (CNS) diseases.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Microglia are the primary immune cells in the central nervous system (CNS).
- These cells exhibit a dual role, supporting neuronal health in the healthy CNS but contributing to neurodegeneration when dysregulated.
- Microglial dysfunction is linked to neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize current knowledge on the dual role of microglia in neuronal survival.
- To examine microglial neuroprotective and neurotoxic actions in health and disease.
- To explore therapeutic strategies targeting microglial functions.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review and synthesis.
- Analysis of microglial roles in neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's, Parkinson's).
- Examination of microglial involvement in neuropsychiatric disorders (e.g., depression, schizophrenia).
Main Results:
- Microglial neuroprotection involves trophic support and neuroinflammation regulation.
- Factors contributing to microglial neurotoxicity were identified.
- Therapeutic potential and challenges of targeting microglial functions were discussed.
Conclusions:
- Elucidating microglia's multifaceted roles is crucial for understanding CNS diseases.
- This work informs the development of novel, microglia-centric therapeutic strategies.
- Targeting microglia offers potential for improved treatment outcomes in CNS disorders.
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